Albert A. Pickerd

Albert A. Pickerd, age 78, of Sundance, Wyoming, passed away on March 7, 2024, surrounded by loved ones after a short battle with cancer. He was born in Spearfish, South Dakota, on March 4, 1946, the son of Orville G. Pickerd and Fletta Hathaway.

Albert was a devoted husband, stepfather, and, most importantly, grandpa/great grandpa. He grew up living between South Dakota and Wyoming.

He graduated from Sundance High School, where he received recognition for being Student of the Month from Representative Teno Roncalio and placed fourth at state in wrestling all four years of high school.

He was drafted into the US Army and served three years at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, as a cook. Albert was a member of the Freemasons, Tower Lodge #44, where he served as Worshipful Master numerous times. His unwavering commitment to his family and community left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Albert worked as a ranch hand, school custodian and greenhouse operator. He married Rita McKenney (Mitchell) in 1989, and the couple ran Pickerd's Greenhouse through 2019.

Time spent with any of his grandkids or great grandkids was a highlight for Albert. He enjoyed sledding and fishing with them the most. Albert had fond memories of working cows and appreciated having a good horse under him.

Albert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rita. Together, they shared a lifetime of love and companionship. Rita's memory will forever be intertwined with Albert's.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, his sister Verla Hughes, his brother Orville Lee Pickerd, and his great-grandson, Triton Fritz.

Albert is survived by his twin sister, Alice Hocket; sister, Patty (Delbert) Bousa; half-sister, Ellen Elsasser; half-brothers, Jim (Jay) Hockett, Tim (Wendy) Hockett and Everett (Penny) Hockett. Additionally, he leaves behind his stepchildren, Khristy (Dan, deceased) Fritz, Jim (Doreen) McKenney, Todd (Andrea, deceased) McKenney, and daughter-in-law, JoDee Putnins.

Albert's legacy lives on through his ten grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Their laughter and shenanigans echoed in his heart.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Fidler-Roberts and Isburg Funeral Home in Sundance. Burial with full military honors will be at 2 p.m. in Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, South Dakota. Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral service at the funeral home.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Roberts & Isburg Funeral Chapel of Sundance. Online condolences may be written at http://www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com.